Instead of focusing on what could have been an interesting idea in "Krypton Returns," Scott Lobdell and friends deliver a fragmented, contrived second chapter in "Superboy" #25, partially salvaged by a strong effort from artist Ed Bene

"Action Comics Annual" #2 by Scott Lobdell, Kenneth Rocafort and Dan Jurgens is enjoyable enough for attention to the fundamentals of comic storytelling, but the intriguing and nice looking story isn't bad, either.

After last month's issue was so atmospheric and creepy, Scott Lobdell and Eddy Barrows's work on "Superman" #22 is so average as H.I.V.E. and Hector Hammond face off, that it ultimately comes as a letdown.

"Superboy" #20 has R.B. Silva joined by Justin Jordan, Kenneth Rocafort, and ChrisCross, and already the book has become much more readable than it was in recent months as Superboy is attacked by H.I.V.E.